Front Range
SnowpackAmanda Loughlin · Mar 30, 2025 · Front Range
Weather
Overcast skies becoming broken in the afternoon, mild temps, moderate west wind with strong gusts and active snow transport.
Snowpack
I noticed graupel mixed on the surface of new snow. A snow pit on east facing aspect held multiple melt freeze crusts, moist to wet snow and did not produce propagation on extended column tests. A snow pit on west facing aspect below tree line also held multiple melt freeze crusts with wet snow and dust. I found a 4F layer here about 25cm down that was wet and produced propagation with taps from the wrist (ECTP6 and ECTP4). It is worth assessing if this layer is widespread or localized, as additional snow on this structure could be problematic. A party who skied Montgomery Bowl and showed me a video of open water on terrain below tree line and pictures of large cornices in the bowl above tree line. The recent warm temperatures have led to open streams, which I noticed near the parking lot.